Captain Corelli's Mandolin 

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John Madden, 2000 (129 mins, Cert.  15)

John Maddenâs eagerly awaited follow up to Shakespeare in Love is adapted from Louis de Bernieresâ acclaimed novel and stars Nicholas Cage, Christian Bale, Penelope Cruz, John Hurt and Irene Papas. Shot on the ravishing island of Cephallonia in Greece, the story tells of an occupying Italian army officer who falls in love with a beautiful local girl. However, she is betrothed to a fisherman who has just left the island to join the Greek resistance.
(Barbican Publicity)

There is much to enjoy about this film. John Hurt's portrayal of Dr. Iannis is perfectly judged, the stunning scenery of Cephallonia is captured in magnificent splendour and is used expertly to root the action in its intended location. The supporting cast (with the exception of the rather bland Penelope Cruz as Pelagia) are believeable and effective and the action sequences set the pulse racing.  But... firstly, Nicholas Cage is utterly unconvincing as Corelli himself and seems to be going through the motions without conviction and, secondly, the infamously amputated ending belittles and trivialises what we've seen in the preceding two hours, much of which is effective and enjoyable. So, on balance, we have here a fine attempt to film a superb book that's let down by two utterly misguided capitulations to Hollywood convention: the happy ending and the casting of the 'big name' white American leading man. It's disapointing to see the director of Mrs Brown and Shakespeare in Love allow his film to be hobbled in this way.
(Steve Fagg)

Seen: Wednesday, 23rd May, 2001 (Barbican 1)